Stereolab Return After 15 Years With New Album & Trippy “Aerial Troubles” Video

A Sonic Renaissance: Stereolab Returns with New Album After 15-Year Hiatus

The music world is abuzz with the electrifying news that Stereolab, the iconic avant-pop band, is back with a brand new album, Instant Holograms on Metal Film, marking their first collection of original material in a decade and a half. The announcement follows a cryptic and intriguing promotional campaign that has captivated fans and critics alike, signaling a vibrant new chapter for the band.

The initial hint of Stereolab's return came in the form of a mysterious 7-inch vinyl single, enigmatically labeled Unsolicited Stereolab Material, which landed unexpectedly in the mailboxes of select Stereolab enthusiasts and even some members of the Pitchfork editorial team. This vinyl treasure featured a captivating new track titled Aerial Troubles on one side, accompanied by its instrumental counterpart on the reverse. The unexpected arrival of this vinyl sparked fervent speculation and anticipation within the music community, setting the stage for the official announcement.

The new album, Instant Holograms on Metal Film, is slated for release on May 23rd, a date circled on the calendars of Stereolab devotees worldwide. The album will be jointly released through Stereolab's own label, Duophonic UHF Disks, in collaboration with Warp Records, a label renowned for its support of innovative and experimental music. This partnership underscores the band's commitment to maintaining creative control while leveraging the reach and resources of a respected industry player.

A Legacy of Innovation: Reflecting on Stereolab's Musical Journey

Stereolab's influence on contemporary music is undeniable. Their unique blend of krautrock rhythms, vintage electronic sounds, and French pop sensibilities has inspired countless artists and shaped the landscape of alternative music. The band's last full-length album of original material, Not Music, was released in 2010, leaving fans eagerly awaiting their next sonic exploration. While Not Music served as a fitting conclusion to a particular phase of their career, the intervening years have only amplified the demand for new Stereolab sounds.

In the years since Not Music, Stereolab has remained active in the music scene, primarily through the reissue of their extensive back catalog. These reissues have not only allowed longtime fans to revisit their favorite albums but have also introduced a new generation of listeners to the band's groundbreaking work. Notably, the band recently announced more accessible reissues of seven albums, presented in double-disc formats, a departure from the earlier triple-disc editions. This move reflects a desire to make their music more readily available and affordable to a wider audience.

The re-release of Pulse of the Early Brain in 2022 further demonstrated the band's commitment to preserving and celebrating their musical legacy. These reissues have served as a reminder of Stereolab's enduring relevance and their ability to transcend trends and generations. They have also provided a valuable context for understanding the band's evolution and the diverse influences that have shaped their sound.

Aerial Troubles: A Glimpse into the New Sonic Landscape

The release of Aerial Troubles offers a tantalizing preview of what to expect from Instant Holograms on Metal Film. The track showcases Stereolab's signature blend of hypnotic rhythms, swirling synthesizers, and Laetitia Sadier's distinctive vocals. The song's title itself evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue, hinting at the album's thematic explorations.

Accompanying the release of Aerial Troubles is a visually stunning and hallucinatory music video directed by French photographer and painter Laurent Askienazy. The video perfectly complements the song's ethereal atmosphere, creating a captivating and immersive experience for the viewer. Askienazy's artistic vision aligns seamlessly with Stereolab's aesthetic, resulting in a visually arresting and thought-provoking piece of art.

The 7-inch vinyl single that preceded the album announcement also contained intriguing fill-in and word-finder puzzles, incorporating band members' names and subtle hints at the new music. This playful and interactive approach to promotion reflects Stereolab's quirky and unconventional spirit, further engaging fans and building anticipation for the album release.

The Creative Collective: The Musicians Behind Instant Holograms on Metal Film

Instant Holograms on Metal Film features the core members of Stereolab, Tim Gane and Laetitia Sadier, alongside a talented ensemble of musicians who have contributed their unique skills and perspectives to the album's sonic tapestry. The collaborative nature of the project underscores Stereolab's commitment to experimentation and their willingness to embrace diverse musical influences.

The album features contributions from Cooper Crain, known for his work with the band Bitchin Bajas, Rob Frye, a multi-instrumentalist and composer, Ben LaMar Gay, a cornetist and composer whose work spans jazz, experimental music, and world music traditions, Ric Elsworth, a longtime Stereolab collaborator, Holger Zapf, Marie Merlet, and Molly Read. This diverse group of musicians brings a wealth of experience and creativity to the project, enriching the album's sonic landscape and adding new layers of depth and complexity.

The inclusion of these collaborators highlights Stereolab's commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories. By bringing together musicians from different backgrounds and genres, the band has created an album that is both familiar and innovative, retaining their signature sound while incorporating fresh and exciting elements.

Global Sounds: Stereolab Embarks on International Tour

In addition to the release of Instant Holograms on Metal Film, Stereolab is gearing up for an extensive international tour that will take them to various cities across North America and Europe throughout the year. This tour will provide fans with the opportunity to experience the new music live and to reconnect with the band's iconic back catalog.

The tour dates are eagerly anticipated by fans who have been waiting patiently for the opportunity to see Stereolab perform live again. The band's live performances are known for their energy, their sonic experimentation, and their ability to create a captivating and immersive experience for the audience. The upcoming tour promises to be a celebration of Stereolab's musical legacy and a showcase of their new material.

The international tour underscores Stereolab's enduring appeal and their global fanbase. The band's music transcends geographical boundaries and cultural differences, resonating with listeners from all walks of life. The tour will provide an opportunity for fans from around the world to come together and celebrate the music of Stereolab.

A Welcome Return: The Significance of Stereolab's Comeback

Stereolab's return to the music scene is more than just a reunion; it's a reaffirmation of their artistic vision and their commitment to pushing boundaries. In a musical landscape often dominated by fleeting trends and manufactured pop, Stereolab's unique and uncompromising sound stands out as a beacon of originality and innovation.

The release of Instant Holograms on Metal Film is a testament to Stereolab's enduring relevance and their ability to connect with audiences on a deep and meaningful level. The album promises to be a sonic journey that will challenge and inspire listeners, reminding us of the power of music to transcend boundaries and to create new worlds.

Stereolab's comeback is a welcome reminder that true artistry endures. Their music continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike. Instant Holograms on Metal Film is not just a new album; it's a statement of intent, a declaration that Stereolab is back and ready to continue their sonic exploration.